Abstract This paper looks at the drug Sinemet, used to treat patients with Parkinson's disease. The author explains that the drug is a combination of carbidopa and levodopa, the carbidopa preventing the levodopa from being decarboxylated in tissues outside the CNS so that a maximum dose is delivered to the brain. The paper discusses the drug structure, dosage, side effects, and contraindications.
From the Paper "The drug being researched is Sinemet which came on the market in Leffler. The name Sinemet literally means without vomiting generic name Carbidopa-levodopa. The drug is used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and syndrome ..."
Abstract This paper discusses the use of Levodopa in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. The paper looks at several conditions where levodopa is contraindicated and explains how levodopa interacts with other drugs. The paper then lists levodopa's side effects and its "wearing-off" effect. IN addition, the paper discusses the need for the proper intake of levodopa and for the collaboration of the family, patient and health care team.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction of Levodopa
From the Paper "Levodopa is the gold standard of treatment for Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is manifested with tremors, stiffness, bradykinesia, and slow movements. Levodopa is an amino acid precursor of dopamine. The combination of carbidopa to levodopa blocks enzymes that could possibly deactivate levodopa prior to entering the blood brain barrier. The successful treatment of Parkinsonian symptoms with levodopa results in the reduction of these symptoms. Common adverse effects are multisystemic. The "wearing-off' effect of levodopa is a concern to those who have been taking this drug."
